Training Orchestra

Programme notes

These programme notes have been specially written for a junior school audience. They introduce the music and its composers in a fun, accessible way, helping young listeners discover interesting facts and enjoy the music as they listen.

1. Beethoven Symphony No. 5 – Third Movement

Ludwig van Beethoven was a famous German composer whose music is still loved all over the world. The third movement of his Fifth Symphony is full of mystery, excitement and surprises. It begins with a quiet, sneaky melody that makes you wonder what might happen next, before bursting into louder, more powerful music.

As you listen, imagine a story unfolding. Can you hear the music changing between quiet, mysterious moments and bold, dramatic sounds? Listen out for the repeating rhythms and the way the different instruments seem to answer one another. Towards the end, the music becomes quieter and more mysterious, leading us into the final movement. What sort of adventure do you think the music is describing?

2. Folk Songs from the British Isles

Folk songs are traditional songs that have been passed down from one generation to another. They often tell stories about people, places, love, adventures and everyday life. The British Isles have a rich collection of folk songs, each with its own special character and history. Douglas E. Wagner has brought together some of these familiar traditional melodies in an arrangement for orchestra.

As you listen, see if you recognise any of the tunes and notice how each melody has its own mood and character. Some may sound cheerful and lively, while others might be gentle and thoughtful. Listen carefully to how the different instruments take turns playing the melodies. Which tune do you like best, and what pictures or stories do they bring to your imagination?

3. Shake It Off - Taylor Swift

Taylor Swift is a hugely popular American singer and songwriter, famous for writing catchy songs that people love to sing and dance along to. Shake It Off is an upbeat, feel-good song all about not worrying too much about what other people think and staying positive. Michael Brown has arranged the song for orchestra, bringing its lively rhythms and infectious energy to life.

This is your chance to join in! There is a singing part to this performance, so get ready to sing along with the orchestra. The words will be printed in the concert programme, which is available free of charge on the day with every ticket. Listen out for the catchy tunes, enjoy the beat and don't be afraid to sing along. Most importantly, have fun and remember to shake it off!

4. The Lion King & ABBA Medley - Music by Elton John, Hans Zimmer and ABBA

Get ready for a fantastic musical mashup bringing together two very different but equally exciting worlds! First, we travel to the African Pride Lands with music from Disney's The Lion King, the much-loved story of Simba, a young lion destined to become King. Then we switch to the catchy pop sounds of ABBA, the famous Swedish group whose songs have had people singing and dancing for generations. Expect wonderful melodies, lively rhythms and plenty of familiar tunes!

Now it's your turn to join in! This medley includes a singing element, so get ready to lend your voices to the orchestra. The words will be included in the concert programme, available free of charge on the day with every ticket. So sing along, enjoy the music and celebrate the joy of making music together – just as ABBA remind us in Thank You for the Music!